Affordable Holiday Gifts for 2006

With the cost of so many things going up in 2006, it’s nice to know there are still affordable, tasteful holiday gifts that would be suitable for gardeners. Here are some ideas for the holiday season.

Pomegranate has a complete line of Knowledge Card decks on various subjects, including ones that will be of interest to gardeners. These come in sturdy, attractive boxes. Each deck contains 48 question and answer cards. Among the titles are the “Sierra Club Trees Knowledge Cards” and “Botanical Symbols in Chinese Art Knowledge Cards.”

Pomegranate has also released various journals that would be of interest to gardeners. Among these are “A Gathering of Flowers Journal” and the “National Audubon Society Birder’s Journal.” A new title for 2006 is the “Frank Lloyd Wright Pocket Journal.” Sold in an attractive gift box, this leather-bound journal with a black ribbon marker is embossed with one of Wright’s designs. It has 144 pages and a short biography of Wright.

Pomegranate also released a new line—books of postcards—on various subjects. Keep some of these around for last minute holiday gifts. These inexpensive books have 30 images on premium, oversized cards. Among the titles that will appeal to gardens are “Monet’s Gardens at Giverny Book of Postcards” and the “Sierra Club Wildflowers Book of Postcards.” Others include the “Chas Addams Book of Postcards.”

In addition, Pomegranate now has boxed sets of postcards. Among these are the “R. Crumb’s Mr. Natural Boxed Postcards.” This features 20 postcards with two each of ten different, classic designs.

Almanacs make great gifts, and the most complete one by far is the “Baer’s 2007 Agricultural Almanac and Gardener’s Guide.” Published by John Baer’s Sons, this is edited by Gerald S. Lestz. 2007 marks the 182nd year this popular publication has been available. From cover to cover, it contains useful information, and helpful tables. In addition to astrological details for 2007, this has folklore for every month along with garden signs, gardening tips and ideas. Readers will also find delightful recipes and historical highlights.

For those involved in crafts, there are any n umber of how-to books and patterns that feature garden-related themes. “Sew Easy Parties” from Four Corners Designs is a delightful book that includes everything crafters need for planning successful parties. This unusual book includes recipes, ideas on decorating, games, and other party activities along with fast and easy sewing projects. These projects are arranged into six themes, including a baby shower, a reunion, a backyard beach party, and a fun party for youngsters. Illustrated with color, this features full-size pattern pieces and illustrated, step-by-step instructions for all the projects. Among the projects are pillowcases, placemats, and table runners.